ISTIC was created in October of 1956 as a national scientific and technical information service institute within MOST. Its areas of activity include: information analysis and policy research on Science and Technology (S&T); the provision of scientific and technical documentation services oriented towards key innovation entities; diffusion of new technologies and management of advanced S&T service platforms; training and further education of information professionals; knowledge management for learned societies; and book publishing. In addition, ISTIC is responsible for the important mission of maintenance and development of the National Engineering and Technology Library.